KUALA LUMPUR – A dozen initiatives by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) have been shortlisted for the 2025 World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prizes, marking a major milestone in Malaysia’s digital journey on the global stage.
The WSIS Prizes, organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) with support from various United Nations agencies, recognise impactful digital projects that advance sustainable development. Malaysia’s 12 shortlisted entries – its highest tally to date – place it among the leading global contributors in using ICT for inclusive growth.
“This recognition by the ITU reflects Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to digital inclusion and sustainable innovation,” MCMC said in a statement. “It’s an incredible honour to have so many of our initiatives recognised on an international stage.”
The shortlisted projects span a range of categories under the WSIS Action Lines (AL) and align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The 12 projects are:
1. Rural Connectivity Redefined: How SMART600 is Shaping Sarawak’s Future (AL C1)
A large-scale rural connectivity initiative deploying 600 new 4G towers across Sarawak to bridge the digital divide in low-density, economically limited areas.
2. MetaHRise: Transforming Onboarding and Talent Development through the Metaverse (AL C1)
An innovative onboarding platform that leverages immersive metaverse technology to enhance how new talent is welcomed and trained.
3. Communication Infrastructure Management System (CIMS) (AL C2)
A big data-powered platform for better managing and overseeing Malaysia’s communications infrastructure, driving innovation and closing connectivity gaps.
4. Connecting Kerling: Strategic Steps Toward Universal Internet Access (AL C2)
A project to deliver reliable internet to Kampung Orang Asli Kerling in Selangor, enabling improved access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunity.
5. National Information Dissemination Centre (AL C4)
A Universal Service Provision (USP) initiative to provide shared internet access in rural and underserved regions through sustainable, community-empowering programmes.
6. Development of the Industry Guidelines on Network and Infrastructure Sharing (AL C6)
A national framework encouraging active and passive infrastructure sharing among mobile network operators to improve efficiency and connectivity across Malaysia.
7. MCMC Cashless Society Programme (AL C7 – E-Business)
A five-year plan to promote digital payments in rural and underserved communities, supporting small traders and helping them expand market access and income.
8. AgriNXT: Oil Palm Chapter (OPC) (AL C7 – E-Agriculture)
A smart agriculture project using AI, drones, and connectivity tools to modernise the palm oil industry, especially in dense canopy environments.
9. Sihat Xpress Smart Telehealth Kiosk (AL C7 – E-Health)
A telehealth effort deploying 2,000 kiosks and 1,000 doctors across the country to provide accessible health screenings and virtual consultations.
10. MCMC NEXUS: A Commitment to Quality and Transparency in Internet Services (AL C7 – E-Government)
A tool offering real-time network diagnostics—such as speed tests and jitter analysis—to promote transparency and service quality for users.
11. MCMC–Microsoft AI TEACH Programme (AL C10)
A collaboration aimed at empowering B40 groups, women, and persons with disabilities with practical AI skills and career readiness tools.
12. Stingray II: Catalysing Digital Transformation in Pulau Ketam (AL C11)
A high-speed broadband project addressing longstanding internet instability on Pulau Ketam, unlocking new opportunities in education, health, and local enterprise.
The nation’s rising prominence on the international digital stage is further reinforced by its role this year as Platinum Strategic Partner at WSIS+20 – an appointment that underscores the country’s leadership in shaping global digital policy and innovation.
“This year’s nominations build on our previous wins in 2023 and 2024,” said MCMC. “They reflect the collective drive from all levels of government and industry to create a more connected, empowered, and digitally resilient society.”
Public voting for the WSIS Prizes 2025 is now open. MCMC urges all Malaysians to participate by scanning the QR code provided below to vote for the project that inspires them most.
“Let’s back these homegrown innovations and showcase Malaysia’s digital excellence to the world,” it said. – April 19, 2025
